“Rocket” of the Harlem Wizards drives in for a slam-dunk… and scores! Yet another amazing basketball shot by the Wizards! On Saturday, February 11, 2012, many Dobbs Ferry residents, young and old, attended a basketball game. But this was no ordinary basketball game. The world famous Harlem Wizards were going against the Dobbs Ferry Dunkers, which included many familiar names and faces.
This event was sponsored by the Dobbs Ferry PTSA as a fundraiser for enrichment programs in theDobbsFerrySchool District. Tickets were sold online, on the PTSA website, and at PTSA sponsored events (such as the used book sale) prior to the event. Snacks and refreshments were sold at the game, as well as a bundle of Wizards wear which included hats, t-shirts, basketballs, and much more!
Lisa Ferrara is the President of the PTSA and spearheaded the activities. She commented, “This is a great event and community builder.”
Coach “Q” Fred Quartlebaum led the Dobbs Ferry Dunkers. He was assisted by Dobbs Ferry parent Peter Baglieri. The player roster included many of our town favorites:
- Lisa Brady-school superintendent
- Patrick Mussolini- our very own principal
- Julia Drake- Springhurst’s principal
- Doug Berry- Director of Curriculum
- Dr. Jin Park-Middle School Science Teacher and Parent
- Josh Rosen- Springhurst Math Specialist
- Anthony Gaines- Teacher,ClarkeAcademy
- Joe Cooke-MercyCollege, Center for Student Success and Engagement/PACT
- Anna Marozuk-MastersSchool
- Al Straub- Parent
- Drew Coburn- Village Facilities Department and Parent
- Sean Kennedy- Parent
- Jace Alexander- Parent
- Mara Hinksmon- Parent
- Eddie Bettinelli- Parent
- Ron Rowland- Parent
The Harlem Wizards were represented by “DP”, “Broadway”, “Big J”, “Rocket”, and “Mr. 340”.
The opening tip was at 7 pm and from then on, the Wizards and Dobbs Ferry Dunkers were in game mode… or were they? Full of jokes and laughs, the Wizards and Dobbs Ferry Dunkers each chose their man or woman. The first quarter ended with the Dobbs Ferry Dunkers in the lead 20 to 17. The top scorers were Mr. Mussolini and Jace Alexander.
Amazingly, the Dunkers were able to tie the score by halftime at 36. As part of the Halftime Show there was a game called “You’ve been tricked.” Around 10 random kids from the stands were chosen and had to stand in a circle. Be careful, because you never knew when the Wizard would throw you the ball! At the end all were eliminated but one… a four year old name Jake! Who knew that a four year old would outlast them all?
The second half was consistently interrupted with foul calls. With Dr. Park on the foul line, things started to get out of hand. The Wizards were up to their usual hijinks. Some members of the stands got watered. At the end of the game, with the jokes completed and players good and sweaty, the score ended up with the Wizards on top 86-79.
The true winners however, were the fans. After the game, the legendary Wizards were free to sign anything, autographing everything from basketballs to shoes! Lines were filled with mostly young hopefuls ready to get a signed autograph and maybe even a picture taken with them!
The Harlem Wizards game was a great event that provided a night of fun, games and laughter for all in attendance. Evidenced by the large crowd in attendance, the PTSA fundraiser was a success. The smiles on children’s faces as they cheered for their parents, teachers or Wizard, that was even more priceless.